Modafinil Teeth Grinding And Its Consequences

Modafinil is a medication with a few side effects which are less severe in nature. One of the side effects that is rarely noticed is Modafinil Teeth Grinding. Here, in this blog, we discuss in detail about

• Modafinil Teeth Grinding

• How is it caused?

• How long does Modafinil Teeth grinding last?

• Tips to overcome the disorder.

Readers can take a quick glance at it and find the tips to prevent Modafinil Teeth Grinding.  

What Is Modafinil?

Modafinil is a non-amphetamine, a novel stimulant that helps to treat excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, and shift work disorders. 

The Drug Enforcement Administration classified Modafinil as a Schedule IV controlled substance with a low abuse potency and addiction.  The use of Modafinil was approved by the FDA in 1998. 

200mg/day is the standard recommended dosage of Modafinil. The drug starts working within 30 minutes after administration [1].

Teeth Grinding: An Overview

Teeth Grinding or Bruxism is when you clench, grind, or gnash your teeth. The situation generally happens subconsciously, during waking hours or when you are asleep. The problem causes stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders [2]. 

Teeth Grinding: A Side Effect Of Modafinil 

Though dental problems are not considered a side effect of Modafinil, some individuals might suffer from teeth grinding. Some people might also experience dry mouth and increased thirst, which might also lead to dental concerns such as tooth decay and gum disease. 

How Does Modafinil Affect Your Teeth?

Modafinil, as a stimulating agent, stimulates the nervous system, which might contribute to teeth grinding and clenching in some individuals. 

Teeth Grinding on a regular basis can wear down the tooth surfaces and enamel, resulting in height loss and increased sensitivity. Teeth Grinding doesn’t only affect your dental health but also other aspects of life-

• If you are grinding your teeth while sleeping at night, you might face problems such as headaches and jaw pain the following day. 

• People work on computers the whole day and do not clench their jaws; this might lead to chronic migraines and muscle pain in the face and neck. 

- Symptoms of Modafinil Teeth Grinding-

The following are a few symptoms of Modafinil-

• Loose tooth

• Stiffness in the jaw

• Sensitive teeth 

• Toothache

• Stiffness of the face after waking up. 

NOTE: The symptoms of Modafinil Teeth Grinding vary from general bruxism, and the symptoms are only visible after administration of Modafinil dosage. 

Duration Of Modafinil Affecting Your Teeth

Modafinil's half-life (duration required by medicine to reduce by half) is 12- 15 hours. Therefore, Modafinil might affect teeth grinding for up to 24-30 hours.

Generally, a medication requires 4-5 half-lives to be completely removed from the system. Therefore, Modafinil takes 60-75 hours to be completely removed from the system. 

How To Prevent Teeth Grinding?

You can try the following tips in order to prevent or manage Modafinil Teeth Grinding-

• You should drink plenty of water; staying hydrated helps keep your mouth moist, reducing the chances of teeth grinding. 

• Consult your doctor; they will help you in adjusting your dosages.

• Lowering the Modafinil dosage decreases the overall stimulant effect in the body, resulting in lower chances of teeth grinding. 

• You can use a mouthguard that will help you protect your teeth and jaw from grinding. 

• Chewing gum can reduce the chances of teeth grinding as it produces saliva and helps lubricate the mouth. 

• You can avoid caffeine and stimulants in order to avoid teeth grinding.

• Practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing two times regularly, can also help in reducing teeth grinding. 

When To Seek Medical Help?

If you experience severe headaches while waking up, it is a vital sign that you should consult with your healthcare professional. 

You should immediately consult your doctor whenever you experience severe neck, jaw, or mouth pain. 

Modafinil Teeth Grinding: Our Final Outlook

Modafinil Teeth Grinding is not a common side effect that is observed among people. The problem is also not reported by the FDA for its adverse effects. Teeth grinding causes pain and depletes oral health. It causes pain in the jaw and stiffness in the neck, along with tooth sensitivity.